SACRED CONCERT.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 144855, 6 December 1915, Page 6

SACRED CONCERT.

AT “AOTEA.” Favoured with fine weather, there was a very large attendance at the sacred concert which was given at “Aotea” on Sunday afternoon, and everyone was delighted with the picturesque scenery. A more charming piece of native bush than “Aotea ' could hardly bo found, and on Sunday ofie hoard many expressions of appreciation of the action of the owners (Messrs. Solo Bros.) in so kindly placing tno grounds at the disposal of tlio public from time to time. “Aotea" was looking at its best; the recent rains, followed by warm sunshine, had freshened up the young growth of tlio native trees, whhst tho many species of beautiful ferns growing so luxuriantly in tho shade of the bush added considerably to the charm of the whole surroundings. The music was provided by the Citizens’ Band, which, under the conductorsnip of Bandmaster Cummins, rendered a splendid programme of music. During the afternoon a largo number of ladies dispensed afternoon toa, for which a charge of sixpence was made. No charge was made for admission, hut a collection was taken up, and this together with tho proceeds of the afternoon toa realised ±l2B I6s, which will bo divided equally between the Herald and Budget National Fund and Belgian Fund. Before the gathering dispersed, Mr. D. J. Hughes, in a few well-chosen words, thanked tho band for the really splendid programme of music it had rendered, and also Messrs. Solo Bros, for so generously allowing tlio promoters the use of their grounds for tho' concert. That their action was appreciated was clearly shown by tho very largo number of people who had availed themselves of tlio opportunity of visiting such a delightful spot. Tho thanks of the promoters are also duo to Messrs. Cook and Co. for a donation of tea, Messrs. Burgess, Fraser and Co. for biscuits, Mr. Waldock for biscuits, Mr. J. Hale for milk and cream, Mr. J. Lovell for milk, Mr. Newton King for sugar, Mrs. Paul for soft drinks* Mr, Croot for wood and coal, Mr. Lcaland for loan of urns, Messrs. May and Arrowsmith for use of copper, Messrs. Dutton and Hofford, taxi proprietors, for donating a share of their takings to tho proceeds of the concert, and to all who had donated cakes, etc., for the afternoon tea or in any way had assisted to bring about such a very satisfactory result.